Barry Keoghan is speaking candidly about the narratives that have followed him in recent months—and the toll they’ve taken.
During an appearance on Friends Keep Secrets, the actor addressed speculation surrounding his past relationship with Sabrina Carpenter, including rumors that he had been unfaithful.
“I have been avoiding stuff. … I’ve stopped going to events,” Keoghan said on Tuesday’s episode. “I’ve stopped just socializing, and again, it’s because there was a narrative out there that was never really sort of even spoken on. A narrative that’s not true and I never confirmed or said anything about it and I just disappeared.”
The conversation began with a broader discussion about online criticism, including commentary about his appearance—something Keoghan has previously said led him to step back from public-facing spaces and social media altogether.
This latest interview, however, marked the first time he directly addressed the rumors tied to his breakup with Carpenter.
According to Keoghan, the situation escalated quickly after a viral video circulated online.
“A girl made a video. And then a girl actually made the same video and went, ‘Sorry for making that up,’” Keoghan stated. “But no one seemed to latch onto that video.”
He emphasized the way misinformation can take hold, particularly when amplified across platforms without verification. Despite being aware of the conversation, Keoghan chose not to respond publicly at the time—a decision he says was intentional.
“I’m aware of all of that. I don’t want to bring anyone else into it,” he said.
The actor also made clear that he isn’t seeking sympathy or validation from the public, but rather a shift in how narratives are formed and shared.
“I’m asking for people to stop assuming and to stop jumping on this narrative.”
His comments arrive as Carpenter continues a high-profile run, including headlining both weekends of Coachella 2026, where she notably brought out Madonna to preview their collaboration “Bring Your Love.”
For Keoghan, the focus appears to be less on correcting headlines and more on reclaiming space—both personally and professionally.
